When you are in the market for a new home, there's nothing better than seeing those homes in person.  Open houses are one of the best ways to do it.

Here are six tips to remember when visiting an open house:

1. Dress appropriately.  Arrive looking like a serious potential buyer. Think "business casual." You don't want to make a bad impression.
2. Arrive on time. The homeowner and the hosting agent have set a window of time to make the house available for viewing. Give yourself time to start and finish your tour within that window. Don't arrive five minutes before the end of the time period and expect to linger for 30 minutes. The agent may have another commitment, and the homeowners are likely anxious to get home.
3. Treat the host with respect. The individual hosting the open house is typically the seller's agent. If you decide to make an offer, he or she will be handling negotiations for the seller. Be polite, sign in if requested, and stick to business. You are there to see the home, and the agent is there to show the home to as many potential buyers as possible. 
4. Take notes. The agent will likely have a flyer with all the details about the home, so take a pen and make notes as you walk through it. This will help, particularly as your home search intensifies and you've seen a dozen homes. It can become difficult to keep details straight.
5. Be careful about what you say. Don't say the home is "below your budget," or anything else that could hurt your bargaining position later if you decide to make an offer. The agent (and other potential buyers) are listening.
6. Wait to discuss your likes and dislikes until you leave. Think "poker face." You don't want to be too enthusiastic, and negative comments are never helpful. Hold your discussion until after you leave the property.

Buying a home--especially your first home--is one of the biggest decisions you'll ever make.  It's my goal to help you along the way. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with questions.